Violin Lessons in Olalla, WA

Instruments: Violin

I am now a private violin instructor that is based in Olympia, Washington, with experience teaching students of all ages. Encouraging regular practice in a way that is understandable and engaging, and with proper form, is my primary emphasis for my students. It is valuable for each student to understand the importance of practicing, as well as HOW to practice at home. Lessons are fun, engaging, and encouraging of curiosity and exploration. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

Although I have a classically trained background, I understand that some students don't respond well to the traditional" Suzuki style learning. So, I like to assess a student before recommending books and or repertoire for them or their parents to purchase. I plan unique lesson plans for each student based on several determining factors including level of playing, age, learning curves, learning styles, what their goals for lessons are, and how much practice time they want to commit to per week (which is usually a different number to students than it is to parents). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Ukulele Mandolin Fiddle Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching since 2008 and have felt very blessed to see students develop a love for their instrument and music. I began as a junior instructor with a group of teachers who taught different instruments, where students had the opportunity to play in a band setting. A true rock and roll beginning, I absolutely loved playing in student bands, and teacher showcase bands such as the ZZ Top and Led Zeppelin tribute bands. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Mandolin Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle

I have been teaching violin for 30 years, starting as a bluegrass and Irish fiddle teacher in a folk music store run by a family of performers who were related to the von Trapps of The Sound of Musicfame. Since then, I have tried to continually grow as a performer, musician, and teacher. I have collected a vast amount of muic and resource materials along the way, so I am able to meet each student's needs--from child-friendly beginning repertoire, holiday music, fiddle tunes and jazz standards, to concertos and orchestral excerpts for youth and college orchestra auditions and beyond! Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I feel immense joy and reward when I know that my students are discovering a new love for music, so I create a unique plan for each student that allows them to progress at their own pace. I set realistic goals with each student for what they hope to achieve by the next week, and I work together with them on how to practice. I love seeing students get excited when they realize how much they have improved, and I celebrate their accomplishments with them weekly. Read More